Looking to remedy their financial difficulties, Maserati decided to develop a series-produced grand touring model. Utilizing a reworked version of the inline six-cylinder motor of the 350 S sports racer boasting a modified camshaft profile and wet-sump lubrication, the 3500 GT was announced at the 1957 Geneva Salon. With an advanced chassis clothed in breathtaking new aluminum coachwork by Carrozzeria Touring, the 3500 GT was an instant success, and its popularity led to a renaissance in sales. Just under 2,000 examples were built through 1964, and the model remains esteemed by enthusiasts of all stripes for its historical importance, aesthetic beauty, and stout performance.

This particular 3500 GT was completed by Maserati on October 31, 1960 (exactly sixty years prior to the RM Sotheby’s London sale where it is offered). A desirable first-series example, these cars are identifiable from the successors by their round indicators, rather than rectangular indicators, and the absence of side vent windows which appeared on later 3500 GTs. Finished in Nero with a Pelle Cuoio Naturale interior, the car would remain in its native Italy for the vast majority of its life. Its first owner was Marquis Emilio Pallavicino of Florence, and the car was delivered to him on November 21st.

Subsequently, the 3500 GT was acquired by Bruno Malet, an artist residing in Trieste. The car then passed to Valerio Zardi, residing in the Treviso region of northeast Italy. The car was restored and prepped for participation in vintage racing and rallying in Zardi’s own workshop. At some point, the car passed to an owner in the U.K. and in 2015 was registered there as 460 UYK. A subsequent owner who purchased the car in 2015 commissioned a restoration of the car back to its original configuration by a workshop in Tuscany.

An excellent alternative to a Ferrari 250 GT Coupe or an Aston Martin DB4, the charming 3500 GT helped return Maserati to prosperity and further cement its name in the post-war sports car world. Benefitting from a recent restoration this example, which retains its original engine and body, would make a fine addition to any collection.

Please note that this lot is currently on display at CARS in Chobham at Alpha 319 Chobham Business Centre, Chertsey Road, Chobham, Surrey, GU24 8JB and can be viewed on appointment on Thursday October 29th and Friday October 30th between 9am and 5pm. Please contact our office at +44 (0) 20 7851 7070 or email Britta Buchmann at bbuchmann@rmsothebys.com to secure your appointment. Should you want more information on this lot, feel free to email jlittle@rmsothebys.com